Disadvantages of Computer-Based Education

Computer-based homeschool curriculum packages (like all good things), also have drawbacks. Primary of these is that children using these packages are glued to the computer screen for the bulk of their day. Studies have shown that reading from a computer monitor is harder on your eyes than reading from a book, and watching a young child spend hours on a computer can be slightly stressful for a parent whose background has them equate "screen time" with "wasted time." This use also impacts the whole family as the computer used for homeschooling is unavailable to other family members.

A second drawback arises from the fact that computers-unlike people-are not flexible. Changing the homeschool schedule from what was originally planned can be slightly difficult. In addition unless you trust your child with taking a laptop away from home, it is difficult for your child to just pick up and go when they have work left to do.

A third possible disadvantage will occur if your child does not like the program or has difficulty relating to the teaching style used by the computer. Unlike a human teacher it is difficult (if not impossible) for a computer to modify the program or their style to better match a learner's needs. If there is a clash between the student and the computer, your options are limited unless you decide to abandon the curriculum and purchase something else.

Lastly, it is very easy to be lulled into complacency by a computer-based homeschool curriculum package. Since the computer handles the scheduling and automates the grading process, this can lead to a parent becoming disconnected with what their children are learning and the progress they are making.

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